Much of the work is being done at a world-renowned biomechanics lab at the University of Calgary, where force transducers are the weapons of choice.

Force transducers — devices that measure changes in load — are being developed to study athletes' techniques. Sometimes as small as a postage stamp, they can be put inside speed skates, in ski poles or on skis to measure changes in pressure. A coach can use the data to, say, assess a cross-country skier's form to see how they are using their legs compared to their arms or shoulders.

Sounds pretty cool. More on Canadians, the Olympics and technology here.